subject: 3 Out-of-the-ordinary Tourist Attractions In Muntinlupa, Philippines [print this page] Muntinlupa's attractions aren't exactly well-known, but this city will prove to be quite refreshing to travelers who wish to see something out of the ordinary. There are places here that are old and new, haunting and sentimental, a reminder of the past and the possibility of a much better future.
1. The Bureau of Corrections Administration Building
What is locally known as the New Bilibid Prison (NBP) was built in 1941 to serve as the main insular penitentiary for the prison population of the Philippines. Several local documentaries can trace their roots to its medium security compound. The maximum security compound, on the other hand, has never been shown on TV. Holding more than 16,000 inmates today, the NBP has played a part in the country's history. It once housed notable personalities such as National Artist for Literature Amado V. Hernandez, Filipino senator Jovito Salonga, and Japanese Imperial Army Commander Tomoyuki Yamashita. Among the attractions inside the NBP are:
Memorial Hill and Jamboree Lake
The smallest living natural lake in the country, Jamboree Lake is found at the Memorial Hill, within the compound of the New Bilibid Prison. While still technically a park, visitors aren't allowed in the Memorial Hill from 6 pm to 5 am. Aside from the lake, there is a cannon that commemorates how the NBP compound was used as a Japanese garrison during WWII. The grotto at the hill has a terrific view of Jamboree Lake.
The Director's Quarters
A great example of prewar architecture, The Director's Quarters is a part of the original structure of the NBP. It serves as the official residence of the Director of the Bureau of Corrections and has been shown in several documentaries.
2. The Japanese Garden Cemetery
Located just behind the New Bilibid prison, the Japanese Garden Cemetery is believed to be the burial place of Tomoyuki Yamashita, the Imperial Japanese Army general also known as The Tiger of Malaya. Countless Japanese make pilgrimage to this isolated cemetery and pay respects to the soldiers who died in WWII. The cemetery shrine houses a stone statue and is adorned by chains of multicolored origami cranes on both sides.
3. Insular Life Corporation Center
The facade of the headquarters of Insular Life Assurance Company features a bas relief sculpture made by National Artist Napoleon Abueva. On its centenary, the National Historical Commission placed a marker on the building to honor the first Filipino life insurance company.
Travelers can easily get to these sites when staying at Muntinlupa hotels. So while shopping is among the more popular activities in the city, tourists are invited to take time to visit and get to know the rich history reflected in Muntinlupa's attractions.
